The 1997 release of this CD helped
Benny Carter celebrate his 90th birthday, featuring 14 of his original ballads by a dozen guests, in addition to a warm tribute to his wife of many years, "When Hilma Smiles," sung by
Carter himself in a friendly, unpretentious manner. His smooth alto sax hasn't lost anything over the decades, and the top-notch cornet of
Warren Vaché is also a nice touch. The highlights among the guest vocalists' contributions include
Nancy Marano's emotional version of "He Doesn't Need Me Now" and
Wesla Whitfield's sassy take of "I'm the Caring Kind." ~ Ken Dryden